Lead poisoning mutes swans' brassy notes

Two Trumpeter Swans fly near one another.
Two Trumpeter Swans fly near one another June 4, 2006 in Barrow, Alaska.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota receives a lot of waterfowl that have missed the migration period during the late fall months.

Phil Jenni, the center's executive director, says many trumpeter swans come in with lead poisoning from ingesting particles in the region's lakes and rivers.

Listen to the audio to hear what lead poisoning does to these swans' voices.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.